Author: Rowland Forbes

During the Northern Hemisphere winter, our thoughts turn to vacations and holidays in warmer more exotic climates. South Africa is the perfect spot at anytime of the year. In January it is very hot in Cape Town and right now you can expect daytime temperatures up to 32C (90F) and very dry and sunny. Drive along the Garden Route and relax on the wonderful beaches of Plettenberg Bay, which are among the finest in the world or go hiking in one of the many protected coastal nature reserves.

It is more affordable than you think!

Hop on a flight (we have just bought a direct return flight from New York on South African Airways for less than $900!) and enjoy beaches, wineries, history and, of course, safaris for prices you won’t believe.

Cape Town is an amazing city with an unrivalled setting nestling beneath the imposing 3,500 ft Table Mountain and flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other. You will find wonderful places to stay like historic Glen Avon Lodge which is just a stone’s throw from some of the oldest wineries in the world. Groot Constantia Wines were so popular in Europe in the 18th century that Napoleon insisted on vast quantities on his exile on St Helena Island.
Now is also the time to start planning for some of the other wonders of South Africa.

Wine, blooming deserts and Safaris – the possibilities are endless.

Travel in August and September and stay at remarkable Naries Retreat in Springbok on the west coast and experience the desert blooming with beautiful flowers, many of which are now household names in Britain and America (have you ever wondered where gladioli come from?). You can also plan to visit the Kalahari Desert and stay in the remote !Xaus Lodge owned by the local Bushmen. You will experience their culture and see the amazing variety of animals in the Kgalagardi National Park including the Black Maned Lion.

You can also plan to visit the famed Kruger Park which is the size of Israel and during June to October has great weather. Stay at Notten’s Bush Camp, where you will have luxurious accommodation and in the evening you can sit under candlelight sipping South African wine and eating wonderful food listening to the sounds of the African Bush.

What are you waiting for?

Today is also a good time to plan a trip next Christmas and New Year. The flight price are more expensive but this will be a festive season to remember!

Whatever you decide to plan we know one thing, you will experience hospitality, food and activities quite unlike anywhere else in the world and most of all…YOU WILL WANT TO RETURN to South Africa time and time again.

Have we sparked your interest in this amazing country? Speak to one of our travel experts to find out how we can create your tailor dream getaway to South Africa.